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TUC gives advice on work-related stress

Published: February 3, 2017

The TUC has produced a new guide to help union representatives tackle concerns about work-related stress.

In 2016, a TUC survey found seven in ten workers believe stress is the top concern in the workplace and it is hoped this new handbook will provide more support to those facing issues.

The guide has been produced with the backing of the Health and Safety Executive and focuses on six areas of work-related stress factors such as demanding workloads, organisational changes and poor management.

TUC general secretary Frances O’Grady said: “Workers are increasingly suffering from the effects of workplace stress as pressures of long hours and low job security are taking hold across the UK. But it’s in no-one’s interest to have an overstretched workforce, as anxious staff are less productive and are more likely to take time off. And the HSE standards provide the best way of tackling the issue.

“Union representatives have a key role to play in working with employers to tackle this problem once and for all. Stress is preventable if workers have reasonable workloads, supportive managers and a workplace free from violence, bullying and harassment.”